Turn left to follow the outer

As our goal is to take the longest route without duplicating our path, we will take the Arbutus trail from here.

Again veer left for the Arbutus trail. Note this section of trail has significant elevation changes.

Some interesting rock formations in this area, remember to look around once in a while.

Not an official view point, but a small side trail takes you to an outcropping and your first real view of the water and Vancouver. Lots of boats in this area.

Another view point with access to waters edge.

There are easier (and safer) locations to gain water's edge, but consider looking into the bay on your right for a few of the surf.

Great views of Vancouver from here.

Again veer left to head south and down the Valley Trail.

Star Cove is a nice gravel beach for those wanting safe direct access to the water.

A great spot to examine the uniquely west coast Arbutus tree.

This area can be a bit confusing as it is the terminus for so many trails. Turn left to go down to East Beach for a side view of the light station, or continue forward to get to the official light station view point

From the view point you get a great view of the ocean with the light station just in sight.

The perimeter of the light station is actually restricted property to prevent damage to the station itself.

The Shore Pine Trail hugs the west side of the peninsula and will be the major way to reach most of this side of the park. If you need a shorter/easier rout take the Seven Sisters Trail which is not a steep. A junction for the Seven Sisters is about 50 m forward on the trail.

Another great place to gain access to the waters edge and get views of Vancouver Island on the horizon.

Just past the Junction for West Beach there is a lookout that takes you out onto the rocks. Enjoy the sound of the crashing surf and some sun on in this area on most days.

The west side of the park is somewhat cooler due to the prevailing winds. You also catch views of the ocean through the trees.

Don't miss the views from Shore Pine point.

Shore Pine Trail is one of the longer trails. Some individuals have tried to create their own trails, but it is best just to stay on the trail and continue along. This section begins to get hilly.

Just keep going, it does end eventually!

Blow downs are a natural occurrence in the forest. The parks board does regular maintenance to ensure the trails are walk-able. Decay is a natural phenomenon and required for the health of the forest floor, so only the absolute minimum material is removed as you can see from this cut.

Just 10 m north of this junction sign is Juniper Loop with direct access to the parking lot. If you need to bail on the hike, this is your best/fastest way out. Turn left/North and you are free. We will turn right/south and walk down most of that hike up to extend the hike with what is literally a walk in the meadow.

You can also gain access to the Beacon Lane Trail but cutting through the Battled Owl Path. We'll keep heading south along Seven Sisters Trail.

Another trail that joins Seven Sisters trail. Keep heading south.

We'll head into the meadow off Salmonberry Meadow Path. Keep heading south.

Again take some time to look around along the path at the scenery.

You could head down to Shore Pine again if you want access to West Beach or to do the loop a 2nd time. We'll instead head to the left onto Salmon Berry Meadow

Time for the walk in the Meadow. Off to the left of the trail you will see an opening and some benches. Head into Songbird Meadow for a rest in the sun.

Used historically to show movies for students and in the evenings, this amphitheater has not seen much use in the last decade or so.

Enjoy.

Take a load off and enjoy a chance to rest.

We will head north from here avoiding the congestion on the Beacon Lane Trail for a while. Turn left and head north again.

We could have also left the Songbird Meadow by Meadow Tails to come to this Junction. Keep heading North

All trails lead back to this general area.

If you cut over across Battered Owl Path, Lady Fern Path or Meadow Trails, you'll eventually end here at this major Junction. Since we missed the Juniper Loop, well follow Beacon Lane Trail north to the parking lot and find the Juniper loop entrance and exits in the lower parking lot.

If you want to re-explore the east side of the park I'd recommend the valley trail down to the Arbutus Trail.

Where this all began....

In case you wanted to see what you just walked.

If you had to bail to the parking lot from the Shore Pine Trail, this would be your exit in the LOWER parking. Just in case can't find your vehicle. We'll enter the Juniper Loop from here.

We are headed due west for Juniper Point for our last view point.

South would loop us back down to areas we have already covered.

What can I say...

Keep left towards Juniper Point

Just to the left you'll find the Juniper Point View Point. Head out for some great views of Bowen island and the smaller isles in Howe Sound. Another great spot to watch the surf crash.

Enjoy the views

Just follow the gentle trail as it takes you back to the parking lot.

Hope you enjoyed the journey.